Which Is Better, Balm Or Serum?

Comparing May Lindstrom Youth Dew and One Love Organics Skin Savior

With so many skincare products out there, settling on the right regime can be complicated. There seems to be a never-ending plethora of creams, lotions, serums, and balms that promise to moisturize and rejuvenate your skin. I decided to put two buzzed-about beauty products in a head-to-head test. The first product I received was courtesy of May Lindstrom Skin. The Youth Dew ($120) is a lightweight, hydrating facial serum that promises to transform one’s skin with only a few drops, to be applied morning and night. The wild-harvested, certified organic product contains, in addition to other ingredients: avocado oil, meadowfoam seed oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, rosehip seed oil, pomegranate oil, kukui nut oil, grapefruit essential oil, and lemon essential oil. It also contains CoEnzyme Q10, which is an antioxidant that is made in the human body and necessary for basic cell function. It is similar to a vitamin and can be taken as an over-the-counter supplement.

The price tag may make some skincare junkies balk, but the Youth Dew is a great alternative for those who embrace minimalist skincare regimes. Due to the combination of over 20 plant and botanical oils, the Dew has a faint fragrance of citrus and roses. I set aside my regular moisturizer and was surprised at how well the Dew worked with my skin. Don’t underestimate the power of the product; it’s not meant to be layered with multiple oils or serums. In fact, those with oily skin may find that “a face serum can provide all the benefits of healthy skin without the addition of oils commonly present in moisturizing creams.”

The second product I put to the test was One Love Organics’ multi-tasking Skin Savior Balm ($49). This waterless balm can act as a cleanser or moisturizer. When mixed with your favorite mineral powder, it can even be used as foundation. The list of ingredients includes: virgin coconut oil, sweet soy seed oil, beeswax, jojoba seed oil, orange peel wax, chia seed extract, and oat kernel oil. The balm can be used for all types of skin, as it contains Vitamin B3, zinc and lauric acid. Vitamin B3 acts as an anti-inflammatory and can help to reduce redness. Topic zinc calms the skin, while lauric acid has antibacterial properties. One Love Organics prides itself on using ECOCERT certified brands, being cruelty-free, and free of GMOs, silicons, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.

I used the Skin Savior Balm at night as a cleanser. Although it did remove my makeup, I didn’t notice significant results until the next morning. I was surprised at how well my skin looked—smooth, supple, and hydrated.

Although they may seem to offer the same end result, the Youth Dew is a face serum that is more of a substitute moisturizing cream instead of a cleanser. The Skin Savior Balm is great for removing excess dirt and oil. Both can be used in your skincare regime without acting as product duplicates.

May Lindstrom products are available in select brick and mortar businesses. Check their stockist for specific locations.

In addition to their website, One Love Organics is available via retailers. Check their website for specific locations.

Vanessa Willoughby is a writer and an editor. Her work has been featured on The Toast, Vice, Book Riot, The Hairpin, Thought Catalog, and Bitch Media. She is also Creative Director at Winter Tangerine Review.